Chimney Stack in Dorchester, Dorset

Chimney Stack Self-Catering

This picturesque, Grade II-listed cottage set within the grounds of a 19th-century mansion is full of surprises. Designed by eminent architect Benjamin Ferrey, it features characterfully towering chimney stacks and a charming redbrick facade. So far, so traditional. But step inside and we think you'll do a double-take. The interior is a contemporary design haven, with bold colour choices (we love the lavender dresser in the living room and the playful candy-coloured chairs in the kitchen) and stunning modern artwork (say hello to Michael Caine as you sashay through the kitchen). Large windows let light flood right in, and make every colour pop in a joyful way. There are thoughtful, almost-kitsch touches everywhere you look - the neon disco ball cocktail glasses on the gilded drinks trolly, the flamingo leg table lamp in the kitchen, the silver graffiti slogan on the royal-blue dresser in the master bedroom and the cute zebra-print cushions in the twin room. And it's not often we say the downstairs loo is a real highlight in a home, but check out this one with the retro cassette wallpaper and you'll see what we mean. The home's private terrace is the perfect place to give those disco glasses a whirl (might we suggest a Mai-Tai?), and the enormous, immaculate shared gardens are waiting to be explored. Set in the heart of the Dorset countryside, the dramatic Jurassic Coast is about 30 minutes away, and the magnificent cathedral city of Dorchester about a 20-minute drive.

Home truths:
*While the patio is exclusively for you, the main garden is shared with your neighbours
*You can unload your luggage at the front door, but you'll need to park your car slightly down the drive, near the garages
*Please don't flush anything other than toilet paper down the loo, and don't pour oil or chemicals down the sink. This home is not on a mains sewage system
*The second bedroom can be set up as a super king or two single beds - please let your host know before you arrive
*The maximum guest count is 4 adults and 2 children - there are two sofa beds in the master bedroom suitable for children
*The television is a Smart TV only with no terrestrial channels